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Rabidsponge21 · 10-05-2023, 12:04 PM

It takes two to tango - Part 1 - Mercedes Baylé

This is the title of this deep dive as we look at the two of the most important and influential players on the Regina Elk heading into Season 73.

Mercedes Baylé - Right Wing - 6'11" - 300 pounds - Reading, PA, United States

Here we have the USA prospect and soon to be SHL level player Mercedes Baylé. Having been with the Regina Elk now for 4 seasons to say they have had an impact would truly be an understatement. From being named captain to then producing close to a point per game so far in their career, Baylé has made a point to lead from the very start. Putting up 53 points in their 1st year but taking a hit to their plus/minus show there was still some room to grow their game. S71 then sacrificed some of that offensive pop to correct this and ended with 42 points but a plus 8. Last season? It was time to be one of the big parts of the team and league as they tossed up 89 points in 66 games with 41 of those being goals. The players advanced statistics also have been really solid with above 72 for their grading in Overall, anchored a bit by their offense it still shows that even though Mercedes isn't a complete defensive wizard they more than make up for it with their skill to put the other team down.

What is likely their last season in the juniors - Mercedes has already continued the trend of putting up points. Already sitting at 17 points after 8 games with 10 of those being goals - its clear another big season for them is underway and hopefully the team can calm its defense a bit and start to chase the teams at the top more readily.

Even though I did comment on their defense it does have to be noted that Baylé has made a steady effort to really correct the goals for vs goals against during their career sitting in the negatives during S70 at -1 between the two - to the last couple of seasons really trending in an upward stance. +0.4/ +2.2/ +1.8. I feel rather confident if you add those totals up you would have a player who I am sure would like to drop the GA/60 a bit still - but when you are putting up 5+ yourself you don't feel quite as bad about it.

As we head deeper into the season one has to think that the shooting percentage of 37% has to drop - but even so its safe to say Mercedes Baylé is a freight train on ice with that big frame and weight behind them as they push through opponents and drive the net. The Regina elk will go as Mercedes Baylé goes - so here is hoping for a big season to lead the team to a cup when it is all said and done. Hopefully they don't run into the big buff situation carrying that weight around on those knees - but as long as they can run out there - teams will find it hard to get the puck away from this budding superstar. (545 Words)

Bayley · 10-05-2023, 12:42 PM

Let's gooo!

*CptSquall* · 10-10-2023, 07:02 PM

Approved.

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